Amazing Spicy Grilled Shrimp Recipe

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The Origin of Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp is a global favorite and has long been a staple in coastal cuisines. From the Mediterranean to Southeast Asia, grilled shrimp dishes have been enjoyed for centuries. Their quick cooking time and ability to absorb marinades make shrimp an ideal ingredient for grilling. In the United States, shrimp is often served with Southern or Cajun-inspired seasonings for a spicy kick, just like this recipe!

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Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Shrimp

Shrimp is the star of this recipe. You can use fresh or frozen, but make sure they are peeled and deveined for the best results.

• Pro Tip: Use large shrimp (16/20 size) for grilling so they don’t overcook too quickly. You can leave the tails on for extra flavor and presentation.

Garlic and Cayenne Pepper

Garlic adds depth, while cayenne pepper brings the heat in this spicy shrimp recipe. The combination of the two creates a bold, flavorful marinade.

• Substitution Tip: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference. You can also substitute with red pepper flakes for a different kind of heat.

Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice brightens the shrimp with a tangy freshness, balancing the heat from the spices.

• Pro Tip: Zest the lemon before juicing for even more citrus flavor in the marinade.

Paprika

Paprika gives the shrimp a beautiful red color and a subtle smoky flavor.

• Substitution Tip: Use smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor, especially if you’re grilling indoors.

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How to Make Amazing Spicy Grilled Shrimp

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Pour the marinade over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
2. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning.

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Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

1. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each one for even cooking.
2. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cook very quickly.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
3. Enjoy immediately!

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Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Grilled Shrimp is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also works great in tacos, served over rice, or alongside pasta for a quick and flavorful dinner.

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Variations and Add-Ins

Cajun Grilled Shrimp

Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the marinade for a classic Southern twist. You can also mix in a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp

For a richer version, drizzle the grilled shrimp with garlic butter just before serving. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter with minced garlic and pour over the shrimp as a final touch.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Veggies

Thread bell peppers, onions, and zucchini onto the skewers alongside the shrimp for a full meal on a stick!

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Dietary Adaptations

Precise Diet Classifications:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Keto and Low-Carb: Shrimp is low in carbs, making this dish keto-friendly.
• Dairy-Free: No dairy is used in this recipe, keeping it suitable for dairy-free diets.
• Paleo: This recipe is also paleo-friendly with whole, natural ingredients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Amazing Spicy Grilled Shrimp Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

How long should I marinate the shrimp?
You only need to marinate the shrimp for 15-30 minutes. Avoid marinating them for too long, as the lemon juice can begin to “cook” the shrimp and change their texture.

Can I cook these shrimp in the oven or on the stovetop?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the shrimp on a grill pan or in the oven at 400°F for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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